back, the two battling it out in the democratic primary nearly five years ago, making history coming down to the two of them. then going on to form quite an alliance, the connection behind the scenes and in front of the cameras. right here, as they observed the bodies of those diplomats brought home from libya. tonight, why the president decided to sit down with hillary clinton now. is it about a campaign that's yet to come? here's abc's david kerley. >> i think hillary will go down as one of the finest secretaries of state we've had. >> reporter: a first -- a dual interview with the president, who told cbs' "60 minutes" why he wanted to sit with hillary clinton. >> i want the country to appreciate just what an extraordinary role she's played. >> reporter: a remarkable conclusion to a relationship that at first recommend sbled a no-holds-barred fight. >> i didn't say anything about ronald reagan. >> reporter: two senators. one expected to win, and the upstart. as obama came on, out came that memorable ad from hillary. >> it's 3 a.m. there's a phone in the white house and it's ringing. >>